Deja
You are playing abroad now. Are you satisfied with your first professional contract?
“Yes I am playing for my first professional team, Igtisadchi in Baku and I am very satisfied with my first contract. The process of getting an agent and a contract signed was very new to me so it was a bit overwhelming at first but I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.”
How is adapting to new team going?
“Adapting to the team has been easier than I thought it would be. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms, which have helped me so much. The girls and coaching staff are from all over (Thai, Turkish, Chinese, Dominican, German, Dutch etc.) so everyone is constantly filp-flopping languages but lucky for me mostly everyone can speak English.”
Do you miss the United States?
“I miss my family and certain things from the US like rice krispies, my favorite snack, but overall I am fully embracing life in a different country.”
Could you compare life in USA with life in Azerbaijan?
“Life is a lot different in the US. There’s a lot more diversity in America so when you walk down the street you can find a little of everything. In Azerbaijan I stick out like a sore thumb hah. It has taken some getting used to.”
What are your personal expectations for this season?
“I always expect to work hard and to improve my personal skills but most of all I want to find a way to help my team. It doesn’t matter if that means cheering on the bench or being in the game to get a block, I will try to be whatever the team needs me to be.”
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
“I feel like five years is so far away that I honestly could be doing anything. I plan to go wherever the wind takes me but I truly hope that it’s somewhere warm with good food and lots of volleyball.”
Do you read our website the WorldofVolley?
“I check the site when I have free time but I prefer to stay updated by following the WOV twitter account. It’s a nice way to get a quick glimpse of what’s going on.”
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